Can we use mishri in place of sugar? A Comparative Look

January 12, 2026 •

3 min read

According to the American Heart Association, limiting total daily sugar intake is crucial for health. For those seeking alternatives, the traditional Indian sweetener mishri often comes up as a contender. But can we use mishri in place of sugar, and is it truly a better option?

Quick Summary

Mishri, or rock sugar, is a less-processed form of sugar often perceived as healthier, but it remains primarily sucrose. Its main distinction lies in minimal refining, trace minerals, and Ayurvedic properties, not a significant caloric difference.

Key Points

Less Processed: Authentic dhage wali mishri is less refined than white sugar, retaining trace minerals like calcium and iron.
Not a 'Healthy' Food: Nutritionally, mishri is still primarily sucrose and should be consumed in moderation, not as a superior health food.
Different Glycemic Impact: Mishri is said to have a slightly lower glycemic index than refined sugar, but it still impacts blood sugar levels.
Distinct Taste and Texture: Mishri offers a milder, delicate sweetness and a crystalline texture, making it ideal for traditional Indian recipes.
Caution for Diabetics: Despite claims of a lower GI, mishri is still a sugar and can cause blood sugar spikes, making it unsuitable for diabetics without a doctor's guidance.
Ayurvedic Tradition: In Ayurveda, mishri is prized for its cooling properties and role in aiding digestion and soothing coughs.

The Fundamental Difference: Processing

Both mishri and refined white sugar are forms of sucrose derived from sugarcane. However, they differ significantly in processing. Authentic dhage wali mishri (thread mishri) is minimally processed, made by crystallizing raw sugarcane juice around threads. Refined white sugar, conversely, undergoes extensive chemical processing that removes impurities and results in pure sucrose with no minerals.

Nutritional Content: More Than Just 'Empty Calories'?

Authentic mishri retains some trace minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium due to minimal processing. Refined sugar is considered nutritionally void. While a nutritional difference exists, the mineral quantities in mishri are small, requiring impractical consumption levels for significant health benefits. Thus, mishri is not a significant mineral source but is less processed than refined sugar.

Ayurvedic Perspective and Bodily Effects

In Ayurveda, mishri is valued for its cooling properties and is believed to balance vata and pitta doshas, unlike the heating nature of refined sugar. It is used in remedies for digestion, as a mouth freshener, and to soothe coughs and sore throats. However, these traditional uses lack strong scientific backing.

Glycemic Impact and Concerns for Diabetics

The glycemic index (GI) measures a food's effect on blood sugar. Some sources suggest mishri has a lower GI than refined sugar, leading to a slower blood sugar rise. Others note its GI is still considerable. The key point is that mishri is still primarily sucrose and a form of sugar. Excessive intake of either can cause blood sugar spikes and health issues. Diabetics should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional regarding mishri consumption, similar to refined sugar.

Culinary Application and Taste Profile

Mishri offers a milder, more delicate sweetness compared to the sharp sweetness of refined sugar. This makes it preferred in traditional Indian desserts and beverages. Its crystalline texture also provides a unique mouthfeel and it dissolves slower than granulated sugar. Refined sugar is versatile with a neutral flavor suitable for modern cooking and baking.

How to Use Mishri as a Sugar Substitute

Mishri can be used in moderation in beverages, with fennel seeds after meals, substituted for refined sugar in desserts, in Ayurvedic remedies, or to add a flavorful touch to savory dishes. When choosing mishri, look for authentic dhage wali mishri which has a cotton thread running through the crystals. Avoid pure white versions as they are often highly processed.

Comparison Table: Mishri vs. Refined Sugar


Feature	Mishri (Authentic Dhage Wali)	Refined White Sugar
Processing	Minimally processed, unrefined	Highly processed, chemically refined
Nutritional Content	Contains trace minerals (calcium, iron, etc.)	Nutritionally void; "empty calories"
Ayurvedic Properties	Considered cooling, aids digestion	Considered heating, no medicinal benefits
Glycemic Index	Slightly lower GI than refined sugar	High GI, causes rapid blood sugar spikes
Taste Profile	Milder, more delicate sweetness	Intense, sharp, and neutral sweetness
Texture	Crystalline chunks, dissolves slowly	Fine, granulated crystals

Conclusion

While mishri is less processed than refined sugar and offers a distinct flavor and some trace minerals, it is still primarily sugar (sucrose). It is not a significantly healthier food, and excessive consumption of either can cause health issues. For diabetics, mishri still presents the risk of blood sugar spikes. Mishri is best viewed as an alternative sweetener for specific culinary uses and traditional practices, with moderation being crucial for health.

For more information on balancing sugar intake, visit the American Heart Association's dietary guidelines.

How to Store Mishri and Sugar

Store both mishri and refined sugar in airtight containers in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture. Mishri is less likely to solidify than refined sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions

While mishri is less processed and retains trace minerals, it is fundamentally a form of sugar (sucrose) and provides similar calories to white sugar. It is not a significantly healthier alternative and should be consumed in moderation.

Diabetic patients should avoid mishri just as they would regular sugar. Though some claim a lower glycemic impact, mishri still raises blood sugar levels significantly. Always consult a healthcare professional.

Authentic, traditionally made mishri, known as dhage wali mishri, will have a cotton thread running through its crystals. Fake or commercial varieties are often pure white and lack this thread.

In Ayurvedic tradition, mishri is believed to have medicinal properties, such as aiding digestion and soothing sore throats. However, there is a lack of modern scientific studies to definitively prove these health claims.

Mishri has a milder, more delicate sweetness and a unique crystalline texture, whereas refined sugar has a more intense, neutral sweetness.

According to Ayurveda, mishri has a cooling effect and aids digestion, which is why it is often consumed with fennel seeds (saunf) after meals.

Yes, you can substitute mishri for sugar in many recipes, particularly traditional ones. Be mindful that you may need to crush the crystals and that the final product will have a milder sweetness and different texture.